The Canadian beauty market continues to grow, with consumers demanding everything from organic skincare to high-performance makeup and personal care items. However, importing these products into Canada involves more than just placing an order and shipping them across the border.

Cosmetics and beauty products are regulated under Canadian law, not just by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), but also by Health Canada. That means importers must follow strict guidelines related to product safety, labeling, and ingredient disclosure.

If you’re a first-time importer, eCommerce seller, or distributor, here’s what you need to know to import beauty products into Canada legally and smoothly.

1. Know What Counts as a “Cosmetic” in Canada

Before you import anything, it’s important to understand how Canada classifies beauty and personal care items. According to Health Canada, a “cosmetic” includes:

  • Makeup (foundation, lipstick, mascara)
  • Skincare products (moisturizers, cleansers, masks)
  • Fragrances and perfumes
  • Hair products (shampoos, conditioners, hair dyes)
  • Deodorants and body sprays

If a product claims to treat, prevent, or cure a condition (e.g., acne treatment, anti-aging formulas), it may instead be classified as a natural health product or drug, which involves a different approval process.

Not sure how your product is classified? A licensed customs broker can help you determine the right path.

2. Notify Health Canada Before You Import

All cosmetics sold in Canada must be listed with Health Canada through a Cosmetic Notification Form (CNF). This is a legal requirement for both domestic manufacturers and importers.

To comply, you must:

  • Submit the CNF within 10 days of selling the product in Canada
  • List all product ingredients using INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients)
  • Provide manufacturer and distributor information

No product testing or approval is required, but filing the CNF is mandatory.

For step-by-step help managing forms and documentation, explore our Step-by-Step Guide to Clearing Customs for First-Time Importers.

3. Labeling Rules You Must Follow

Your product label is your first point of compliance, and one of the most common areas where shipments get flagged.

Canadian cosmetics must:

  • Include bilingual labeling (English and French)
  • Show the full list of ingredients using INCI names
  • Identify the manufacturer/distributor and contact information
  • Include warnings or directions for safe use if applicable
  • Clearly state the net quantity (e.g., in mL or g)

Labels must be legible and permanent, and packaging must avoid misleading claims (e.g., “100% chemical-free”) unless they are scientifically verifiable.

Incorrect or missing labels may lead to a product being denied entry or even destroyed at the border.

Our article on Top Reasons for Import Customs Clearance Delays offers tips to avoid setbacks like this.

4. Customs Classification and Duty Rates

Beauty products fall under Chapter 33 of the Canadian Customs Tariff, with separate classifications for:

  • Perfumes and eau de toilette
  • Skincare preparations
  • Haircare and hair dyes
  • Makeup products

Most cosmetics from the U.S. and other trade agreement countries (such as those under USMCA or CPTPP) can enter duty-free, but they are still subject to:

  • 5% GST
  • PST or HST, depending on the province of destination

To streamline your import process and ensure accurate duty rates, consult our Top Ways to Streamline Your Import Process.

5. eCommerce and Private Label Imports

If you’re importing beauty products for an eCommerce store, especially under a private label, you’ll want to:

  • Verify that your supplier uses compliant ingredients and formulations
  • Request full ingredient lists and MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets)
  • File a CNF under your brand name, not just your supplier’s

Businesses outside of Canada can also import products under the Non-Resident Importer (NRI) program, allowing them to sell directly to Canadian customers while taking on the responsibilities of the importer of record.

6. Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Here are the biggest mistakes importers make with cosmetics, and how you can avoid them:

  • Not submitting the CNF before distribution
  • Assuming U.S. or EU compliance is enough for Canadian rules
  • Missing or incorrect bilingual labels
  • Making health claims that shift the product category
  • Ignoring ingredient restrictions (e.g., certain colorants or preservatives)

Need help staying compliant? Clearit Canada can review your product specs and label designs before shipping.

Conclusion

Importing beauty products into Canada opens the door to a thriving, trend-forward consumer market, but it also comes with strict rules around product safety, labeling, and compliance.

By understanding Health Canada requirements, properly classifying your goods, and preparing clear documentation, you can reduce delays and grow your beauty brand with confidence.

Clearit Canada: Helping Beauty Brands Cross Borders

From first-time imports to national rollouts, Clearit Canada helps cosmetic importers stay compliant, avoid delays, and grow fast. Whether you’re building your skincare line or sourcing from overseas, we’ve got your customs needs covered.